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US Navy bans alcohol for sailors in Japan

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The U.S. Navy has banned sailors in Japan from drinking alcohol after several incidents, multiple outlets reported.

The Navy also restricted off-base activity for personnel. The decisions come after a sailor was arrested for drunk driving on the island of Okinawa, according to the Navy Times
.

The incident happened at a time when Okinawa has pushed to get rid of U.S. military bases.

"Effective immediately, sailors are prohibited from drinking alcohol, on and off base. Additionally, all off-base liberty will be curtailed," a statement from the 7th Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Japan said Monday according to CNN
.

"These measures are not taken lightly," said Rear Adm. Matthew Carter, commander of Naval Forces Japan, said in the statement reported by CNN. "For decades, we have enjoyed a strong relationship with the people of Japan. It is imperative that each sailor understand how our actions affect that relationship, and the U.S.-Japan alliance as a whole."